Gulf Air back to the USA 28 years after its last flight to New York
After nearly three decades of absence, Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, announced its return to the United States. The information was released during the official visit in Washington D.C. of Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain.
Gulf Air comes back marks a significant expansion in North America with the launch of direct flights to New York (JFK). This new service establishes a new and additional connection to a key global commercial and cultural hub.
The airline last flew to the U.S. in 1997. Back then, it operated routes to JFK via stops in Abu Dhabi, Doha, or Larnaca.
Starting October 1st, 2025, Gulf Air will operate three weekly flights to New York (JFK). Gulf Air will use for the route a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. Each aircraft features 26 business class seats and 256 in economy.
Gulf Air will initially operate its flights from the current Terminal One at JFK. The airline intends to transition its operations to JFK’s New Terminal One in June 2026. It will then offer passengers seamless and modern travel experience aligned with Gulf Air’s premium service standards.
Following Bahrain’s connectivity strategy
Gulf Air Group Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Goh stated: “We are excited to announce the launch of our direct flights to New York’s JFK and our return to the North American market. This service aligns with Gulf Air’s strategy of calibrated expansion and serving strategic markets. It will provide passengers with greater choice and convenience for travel. Not only through Bahrain International Airport but also between Bahrain and North America, and beyond. It will help supporting the connectivity strategy of the Kingdom.”
Passengers can already book their flights between Bahrain and New York. They can stay updated on flight timings by downloading the Gulf Air mobile application. Or by visiting Gulf Air’s website gulfair.com or through travel agents.
This summer, Gulf Air inaugurated at the end of March 3 weekly services to London Gatwick. The airline also resumed flights on June 25 to Nairobi, 13 years after its last service. Kenya’s capital is from now on linked to Bahrain five times a week.
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